Kniphofia galpinii 'Orange Flame' (Orange Flame Poker Plant) - This poker has fine-textured light green foliage to 12 to 18 inches with spikes of bright salmon-orange flowers that rise above the foliage on wiry stems. It is shorter and has smaller flowers than the more common Kniphofia uvaria selections. Plant in full sun and water occasionally. Hardy to around 15° F. This plant was introduced to us by Native Sons Nursery as an un-named selection in 1994. The name Kniphofia honors Johann Hieronymus Kniphof (1704 -1763), a German physician and botanist. The pronunciation of this genus is often argued about and while most continue to use the easiest to pronounce versions such as ny-FOE-fee-ah or nee-FOF-ee-a, others argue correctly that the name should follow the pronunciation of the name it commemorates. But even for this there are differences of opinion owing to different German regional dialects - one such pronunciation often noted as correct is nip-HOFF-ee-uh while another that is particularly hard to pronounce is k-nip-HOF-ia. Keeping it simple we still use ny-FOE-fee-ah.
This description is based on research and observations made of this plant as it grows in our nursery, in our nursery garden and in other gardens that we have visited. We also try to incorporate comments received from others and appreciate getting feedback of any kind from those who have any additional information about this plant, particularly if they disagree with what we have written or if they have additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing Kniphofia galpinii Orange Flame.